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When you join the Norton Thoracic Institute Lung Cancer Screening Program, the procedure is straightforward. The CT scan is brief and pain-free. Once completed, an extensive team of specialists—including thoracic radiologists, surgeons, cardiologists, pulmonologists, oncologists, internal medicine experts, and infectious disease specialists—will review your scan. They will collectively draft a report, detailing findings and any medical recommendations. Your primary doctor will receive this report, and a representative from our team will contact you to discuss the results.

Find Out Where Your Health Stands: Take the Lung Cancer Health Questionnaire

Lung Cancer Screenings Change Lives

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, among both men and women. This is a perfect time to be proactive and get a lung cancer screening, which consists of a simple 60 second CT scan which is painless and covered 100% by Medicare and private insurers if the individual is eligible as per current guidelines. Dr. Jasmine Huang, a thoracic surgeon with Norton Thoracic Institute at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, recently spoke with Arizona Daily Mix to raise awareness about lung cancer screening and treatment options.

From Diabetes Struggle to Active Grandmom: Kathy’s 70-pound journey

Kathy Misiewics, 77, struggled with diabetes and weighed 200 pounds before her sleeve gastrectomy at Dignity Health. Six years later, she's maintained a 70+ pound weight loss, enjoying travel and shopping.

"Shopping for clothes is fun again," says the retired nurse. While she still has diabetes, her blood sugar, A1C, and blood pressure are now normal. Kathy credits consistent check-ups with the Dignity Health team, exercise, and healthy eating for her success.

Her motivation extended beyond health: "I wanted to be alive to enjoy our family." This great-grandmother's journey highlights renewed vitality and family connection.

Samuel Martinez, 29, once weighed 468 pounds, making simple tasks like walking to his front door a battle. Diagnosed with sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and pre-diabetes even after an initial 130-pound weight loss, he sought a lasting change.

In September 2023, Martinez underwent duodenal switch surgery at Dignity Health. Just two years later, the 6-foot Martinez is a lean 200 pounds and an enthusiastic runner, regularly competing in 5K and 10K races. He shares,

"Before the surgery, I could barely walk from my car to my front door. Now, I can run a mile in 12 minutes." Beyond the physical transformation, Martinez's quarterly meetings with the program's dietician and the support team have reshaped his relationship with food. This holistic approach helped him reverse his pre-diabetic status. He praises the program's ongoing commitment, stating, "They don’t abandon you — and they hold you accountable." This comprehensive care propelled Samuel from immobility to an active, healthy life.

If you fit the following criteria, you may be a good candidate:

• Individuals 50-77 years of age
• Current smoker or have quit within 15 years
• Patient has a smoking history of:
• 1 pack per day over 20 years OR
• 2 packs per day over 10 years